Petrol dealers warn of nationwide shutdown in Pakistan

The All Pakistan Petrol Pump Owners Association has warned it may shut pumps nationwide if the government continues to ignore its demands for urgent talks and a greater role in petroleum-sector policymaking. The association says operators are facing mounting operational, financial and pricing pressures.

In a letter to the petroleum minister, the group said it had already raised the same concerns earlier this month without receiving a response. It argued that the problems affect roughly 14,000 to 15,000 pump owners and, if left unresolved, could trigger another supply crisis.

The warning comes at a time of sharp fuel-price pressure linked to the wider Middle East conflict and volatility in energy markets. Although the government says Pakistan has largely secured cargoes for March and April, dealers insist their business conditions require immediate policy attention.